Modality's semantic maps. An investigation of some Latin modal forms

Abstract

In the recent literature on grammaticalization we find that, since modal meanings arise from a restricted set of semantic sources (i.e. lexical items that refer explicitly to concepts related to possibility, necessity, etc.), cross-linguistically similar paths for the evolution of grammatical markers are predictable, and multiple uses of forms can be viewed as points on grammaticalization chains. The purpose of this investigation, which takes into account the data provided by extensive typological research and the theoretical framework offered by Role and Reference Grammar, is to test these findings and predictions about universal modal paths. Starting from the analysis of the modal forms possum, licet, debeo, oportet, and necesse est, I will also propose a semantic map of modality for Latin.

From Static to Interactive Maps: Drawing Diachronic Maps of (Latin) Modality with Pygmalion

“…This is done by detecting the relations between the different meanings of a lemma, based on their semantics and on previous studies. An important reference for this operation is represented by the models illustrated in van der Auwera and Plungian (1998), in a cross-linguistic perspective, and Magni (2005Magni ( , 2010, for an application to Latin. The former elaborated a ground-breaking model of a cross-linguistic modal map, illustrating semantic relations involving premodal, modal and postmodal concepts in both synchrony and diachrony.…”

“…The former elaborated a ground-breaking model of a cross-linguistic modal map, illustrating semantic relations involving premodal, modal and postmodal concepts in both synchrony and diachrony. 11 Building on this model, Magni (2005Magni ( , 2010 developed a comprehensive map specific to Latin. Her map is based on the analyses of the modal pathways of debeo, licet, necesse (est) '(it is) necessary', oportet 'it is right, proper', and possum (for a further discussion of the interplay between our maps and previous studies, see 3.2 below).…”

Syntax and semantics of modal predicates in Indo‐European

“…es gehört sich ), and is often used in maxims and laws with a following imperative future in ‐to . Unlike necesse est , it often has an epistemic meaning since Early Latin (Bolkestein : 85ff; Magni : 332; : 222ff).…”

“…; cf. Bolkestein : 120ff; Núñez ; Orlandini ; Magni : 331; : 220). When used in the modal sense, dēbeō governs the infinitive (24).…”

“…pósis ‘husband’) expresses possibility in the sense of being capable of doing something, of having physical force, power or influence over something; in Early Latin, it is close in meaning to valeō ‘I am strong, vigorous’ and polleō ‘I am powerful, I prevail’ (cf. Orlandini : 1022; Magni : 329; : 217) . This meaning is properly coded with canonical subject marking.…”